The Cilento coastline is an area of southern Campania located between the Gulf of Salerno and the Gulf of Policastro, and is one of the favourite destinations for destination weddings.
Characterised by about a hundred kilometres of coastline with cliffs, promontories, caves carved into the rock, beaches with a clear sea and fine sand, and many other natural and architectural beauties such as ancient sanctuaries, monasteries, ancient manors, and suggestive archaeological areas.
All these wonderful features led to the Cilento being named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1998.
Here are some locations that will make your special day unforgettable.
Palinuro
Palinuro is famous for its enchanting beaches and sea caves. A wedding on the beach at sunset, with the sea as a backdrop, offers a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Tip:
- Beach Ceremony: choose one of Palinuro’s secluded beaches for an outdoor ceremony. Complete the event with a reception at a local restaurant offering fresh fish specialities.
- Religious ceremony: Church of St Mary of Loreto
Location
Punta Galera Estate: the abode of Poseidon
Just a few steps from the sea, Tenuta di Punta Galera is a place that celebrates the power and majesty of Poseidon. With its open spaces, lush gardens and incredible views of the horizon, this estate is perfect for an epic wedding.
Celebrate your love under the endless sky, where the sea breeze and the sound of the waves will be the melody of your union. Every detail, from decoration to fittings, will resonate with the magic of the sea.
Castellabate
Castellabate, a medieval village perched on a hill, offers a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea. Its picturesque streets and historic atmosphere make it an ideal choice for a dream wedding.
Belmonte Palace (Prince Belmonte’s Punta Licosa estate)
Palazzo Belmonte: elected “Best Historical House in Italy” by the Italian Wedding awards in December 2022, this charming location is immersed in a huge park with centuries-old trees from which breath-taking views of the sea can be seen: the island of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Romantic sunsets, the scent of flowers, noble and refined spaces and the park with it’s lush nature are the exclusive and unique setting for a wedding that wants to be remembered forever.
The large spaces in the park and the amazing panoramic terraces are the ideal locations to offer a unique and surprising setting for the aperitif, lunch, dinner or wedding cake.
The panoramic gazebo allows for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
In all seasons, Palazzo Belmonte is the ideal venue for an intimate and reserved wedding or a large party with many guests.
On the catering front, the venue also stands out for its ability to select the best possible partners for ceremonies.
Paestum
Although already mentioned as a location for a wedding proposal, Paestum is also an excellent choice for celebrating the wedding itself. The Greek temples offer a historic and majestic backdrop for memorable photographs.
Churches in Paestum
Paestum, known mainly for its ancient Greek temples, also offers some impressive churches, especially if you are a lover of sacred art and history.
Church of the SS. Annunziata
Located right inside the archaeological site of Paestum, near the Archaeological Museum and the Bishop’s Palace, it is an early Christian Basilica of great charm that was restored in the Baroque style and will lend a romantic atmosphere to your wedding.
Church of Our Lady of Garnet
Situated on a hill overlooking Paestum, the Church of the Madonna del Granato is a place of worship dating back to the Middle Ages. With a breath-taking panoramic view of the Paestum plain and the sea, it is a perfect place for a proposal of spirituality and intimacy.
Church of St Peter the Apostle
Located in the nearby village of Capaccio, the Church of St Peter the Apostle is another hidden gem. With its simple and refined architecture, it offers a tranquil setting steeped in history, ideal for a romantic moment.
Sanctuary of Santa Maria a Mare
This sanctuary is located near the beach of Paestum, offering a perfect combination of spirituality and nature. The sound of waves crashing on the shore will add a special touch to your moment.
Reception locations in Paestum
Villa Andrea, Paestum: the residence of Aphrodite
Villa Andrea is an elegant mansion that stands just a stone’s throw from the temples of Paestum, a place steeped in history and magic. With its manicured gardens and refined interior spaces, this villa evokes the charm and grace of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty.
Imagine a ceremony surrounded by Mediterranean scents, with Greek temples as witnesses to your eternal love. Your wedding will be an unforgettable experience, a tribute to elegance and history.
Oleanders Resort: the Garden of Demeter
Oleandri Resort, located in the beautiful setting of Paestum, is a corner of paradise that recalls the abundance and fertility of Demeter. Surrounded by lush nature and close to the ancient temples, this resort offers an atmosphere of tranquillity and beauty.
Imagine an outdoor reception, with tables decorated with fresh flowers and Mediterranean scents, in a setting that celebrates life and love. Your wedding will be a sacred event, a hymn to nature and joy.
Le Trabe, Paestum: the Divine Banquet of Dionysus
Le Trabe, immersed in the green Cilento Park, is a location that combines nature, history and sophistication. With its ancient mills and gardens crossed by water, this place recalls the energy and joy of Dionysus, God of wine and celebration.
Imagine a wedding of taste and elegance, where the wedding banquet becomes a sensory experience, enhanced by the authentic flavours of the region. Le Trabe is the perfect venue for a memorable and timeless celebration.
As a local wedding planner, one of the activities I love most is scouting out iconic locations. I dedicate time and energy to discovering unique spots and breath taking sceneries along the Cilento Coast and its surroundings, to offer my brides and grooms venues that reflect their dreams and personalities.
Every wedding needs its perfect setting: whether it is a villa overlooking the sea, a secret garden or an ancient mansion steeped in history, my aim is to offer you only the best.
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